What is the current situation with Newcastle disease in Europe in 2026?

Newcastle disease has surged across several European countries in 2026, prompting emergency responses and concerns about poultry supplies.

Which European countries are most affected by the Newcastle disease outbreak?

Poland has been the most severely affected, with over half a million birds culled, while Germany, Spain, Czechia, Lithuania, and Slovakia have also reported fresh cases.

How does Newcastle disease spread, and what are the prevention methods?

The virus spreads through wild birds, contaminated equipment, and farm workers' clothing. Prevention involves vaccination, strict biosecurity measures, and surveillance.

Home / Health / Newcastle Disease Sparks Poultry Emergency Across Europe

Newcastle Disease Sparks Poultry Emergency Across Europe

5 Apr

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Summary

Newcastle disease has surged across Europe in 2026.
Poland has culled over half a million birds due to outbreaks.
The virus spreads via wild birds and contaminated equipment.

Newcastle Disease Sparks Poultry Emergency Across Europe

Newcastle disease has seen a significant increase across multiple European countries in 2026, prompting urgent action from poultry authorities and raising alarms about supply stability. The highly contagious viral infection, primarily affecting chickens and other poultry, has spread from Eastern to Central and Southern Europe since the beginning of the year.

Poland has reported the most severe impact, with dozens of outbreaks leading to the culling of over half a million birds. Germany has also experienced outbreaks, necessitating the slaughter of approximately 326,000 laying hens on a single farm. Spain, Czechia, Lithuania, and Slovakia have also reported new cases, underscoring the widespread nature of the current situation.